However I recently read an interview with the actor Michael Keaton, that made me re-think a bit about what ‘starting your own business’ really means.

I love how he connects choosing a role with running his business.

It’s so obvious, but I never thought of it that way before.

But this is exactly how everyone should look at what they do … even if you are an employee of someone else.

What are you choosing to do?

What are you choosing to accept?

What are the standards you will work to and will expect from others?

Sure, some of these things are easier to control when you literally run ‘your own business’ … but if we acknowledge that our careers are ultimately in our own hands, then looking at what we do through the lens of it being ‘our own business’, may make us sharper on what we do and what we are willing to do. Or – as is sometimes even more important – what we won’t.

Interesting perspective. But in such a competitive market, I wonder if people only have that power once they have established their credibility. I can’t imagine a junior getting away with dictating what they will or won’t work on. Well, you might have given it a good go Robert, but I’m talking normal people.

Fair point … but I would say the best example of it is Baz. Sure, it was from another time, but in terms of ‘managing his career’ [even if he was doing it because he was a cheeky and nosy bastard], he’s better than Michael Keaton could ever be. Probably earns more than him too.

What a great way to look at your career. I think the actor analogy is particularly good because it encourages you to round yourself out rather than focus on one type of role, which may be good in the short-term but could also make you redundant down the line.

I know you are paraphrasing the viewpoint of someone else, but this is fantastic advice. Even for someone heading towards the end of their career. You have been writing some excellent posts of late Robert. I hope it continues.